COLUMBIA — Derby Ridge Elementary School started a new program this week for students who complete all their school work without behavioral problems that require the student to be sent to the principal's office.

Principal Jeri Petre brought the program from Blue Ridge Elementary, where she was an assistant principal for eight years.

“We were looking for a way to celebrate children who are doing their job at school,” Petre said.

Participating students will be rewarded with an out-of-school celebration every six weeks. At the first celebration earlier this week, the children went to see the movie, “How to Train Your Dragon” at the Goodrich Forum 8 movie theater.

About 500 of Derby Ridge's students attended, Petre said.

The school celebrates students following the three "dragon" qualities: safety, respect and responsible learning.

In addition to the celebrations, Blue Ridge will also distribute “Distinguished Dragon” awards once a month, in which teachers recognize students for following expectations.

They are also continuing the “Braggin’ Dragon” awards in which students are recognized weekly, and their names are announced on the school intercommunication system. The award also recognizes teachers, who receive the “teacher of the week” parking spot at the school.

“We have a lot of great kids here who are doing great things, and we want to celebrate with those kids,” assistant principal Adrienne Patton said.

The next celebration will be a wagon ride at Bradford Farm in October.